Russia vows to deepen cooperation with Afghanistan

KABUL (Pajhwok): A Russian delegation, led by National Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, has held wide-ranging talks with senior officials of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA).

The delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, met Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Abdul Ghani Baradar and Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs Maulvi Abdul Kabir.

The discussions focused on strengthening political ties, expanding economic cooperation, enhancing trade and transit and promoting Russian investment in Afghanistan.

In a statement, the Presidential Palace said Shoigu reiterated Russia's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Afghanistan.

Baradar, for his part, said with the "restoration of security and stability", Afghanistan was positioning itself as a key hub for regional economic cooperation, benefiting the entire region.

He also emphasised IEA's efforts to secure Afghanistan's growth, citing its ban on drug cultivation and actions to dismantle groups threatening both domestic stability and regional security.

Shoigu, who arrived in Kabul on orders from President Vladimir Putin, underlined Russia's intention to deepen both political and economic relations with Afghanistan.

He confirmed efforts were underway to remove the IEA from Russia’s terrorism blacklist, a move that is expected to facilitate stronger ties, although formal recognition of the interim government remains a distant prospect.

The discussions also covered Russia's support for regional infrastructure projects, with the visiting delegation expressing backing for the Afghan-Turkmenistan railway project.

Furthermore, Russian officials indicated their willingness to initiate practical economic cooperation with Afghanistan, with potential collaboration at the upcoming St. Petersburg Economic Forum.

Russian investors and state-owned companies are reportedly interested in Afghanistan’s mining, transport and agriculture sectors.

Shoigu renewed Moscow’s desire to expand trade and economic links with Kabul, highlighting the potential for greater cooperation in various sectors.

In addition, he expressed Russia's interest in Afghanistan regaining its observer status within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), underscoring Moscow's broader strategy to integrate Afghanistan more closely into regional frameworks.

Alexey Overchuk, a key member of the Russian delegation, highlighted potential opportunities for cooperation, particularly in trade.

He signaled Russia’s willingness to reduce or eliminate tariffs on Afghan exports to facilitate its economic growth.

Maulvi Kabir described the visit as a sign of positive relations between Kabul and Moscow, commending Russia’s support for Afghanistan's position at international forums.

He reaffirmed IEA's interest in expanding ties with Russia across various domains, saying Afghanistan's stability and economic growth were closely linked to regional security and prosperity.

sa/mud